Waltham nonprofit shares community care award

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Wicked Local Waltham

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Posted Jul. 16, 2014 at 1:00 PM

Posted Jul. 16, 2014 at 1:00 PM

WALTHAM

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On Monday, June 16, Mass Home Care, the organization representing a network of more than 30 care coordination nonprofits in Massachusetts, held its 31st annual meeting, and presented the annual Community Care Linkages Awards to four health care practitioners – including one with Waltham ties – who have helped bridge the gulf between health care and long-term support services for older adults.

Marilyn Wright, director of care management at Beth Israel Deaconess Care Organization (BIDCO), a value-based physician and hospital network and an Accountable Care Organization, was one of the recipients based on her work with Waltham-based Springwell.

Springwell and BIDCO have developed a partnership over the last 22 months that includes the placement of a full-time community resource coordinator on site at BIDCO’s corporate office. The coordinator supports BIDCO’s team of RN care managers who provide community-based care management and care coordination and improve transitions of care for medically complex patients.

"Springwell believes that our partnership with BIDCO is improving people’s lives," said Ruth Beckerman-Rodau, CEO of Springwell. "Marilyn received this award for her work championing the program, and for her recognition of the impact that long-term services and supports can have on the well-being and improved health of the patients BIDCO serves."

Springwell has been creating, managing and coordinating services for seniors, people with disabilities and those who provide care since its founding in 1977.

"The health and well-being of seniors depends on close coordination between doctor, hospital and community organizations," said Al Norman, executive director of Mass Home Care. "The goal is to see patients as whole people, and to provide seamless care that keeps them living as independently as possible. This is what Springwell and BIDCO have been doing so well."